Unlike one of the other reviews, I don't particularly like nor dislike Joan Blondell. I also think that she's not the reason I hated this film so much. Instead, it's terrible writing...the plot is goofy and the court scene at the end of the show is ridiculous.
Tony (Blondell) is a chorus girl on Broadway and according to this movie, that makes her very suspect, as apparently such women were seen as being only a step or so above a prostitute. Tony has a vague sort of relationship with a known Playboy (Ricardo Cortez) and when her husband sees the pair together he sues for divorce. Oddly, up until this husband shows up, you have no idea Tony is married. This sort of surprise turns up later...which is why I point this out here.
After her name is drug through the mud by her ex, Tony decides that as long as folks think she's a skank, she's going to run with it. No, she does not sleep around...but she cashes in on her notoriety to become a big star on the stage AND she lets all sorts of men buy her things. BUT, and this makes little sense, she's ALSO supposed to be wholesome despite this image and she doesn't live a wild and lavish lifestyle as she pretends. Instead, she keeps a small apartment for her child...something NOT mentioned until near the end of the film. Both times it felt as if these plot devices were just tossed in at the last minute.
What's next and what about the court hearing at the end of the film? Watch to find out...or don't. It's pretty farfetched and silly...so don't say I didn't warn you!
The acting wasn't terrible but the writing and direction were. After all, the film kept springing all sorts of things with no telegraphing it each time...which is confusing and makes it seem gimmicky. Overall, a cheap sort of film which really seemed like Fox Studio put very little money or time into the film.
